elderly, malnourished, chronically ill or emaciated. The timing of
administration is also seen as being important. The particular formula
given depends on the constitution of the patient.- There is a range of herbal preparations available for treating problems
specific to women. The Chinese herb dong quai(Angelica sinensis) is
used in the treatment of many gynaecological ailments. It is said to
regulate menstruation, ‘tonify’ the blood and relieve constipation.
Again, there are various herbal mixtures tailored to the constitutional
type. Table 7.2 illustrates remedies suitable for cramps in women.^8 One
of the most popular herbal mixtures is known as triphala(‘the three
fruits’). This product is rejuvenating and strengthening for all three
doshasand all seven dhatus. It is also a mild laxative. Triphala
comprises three of the most popular ayurvedic herbs: amalaki,
bibbitakiuand haritaki. It is normally taken alone, mixed with honey
or as a tea an hour after the evening meal. However, being a mild
diuretic, some people prefer to take it in the morning.
The medicines are supplied as mixtures of herbs in a dried form, or more
usually with a suitable vehicle (anupana) to facilitate absorption. The most
usual vehicles are water, milk, honey, aloe vera and ghee. People with high
cholesterol levels should be wary about taking large amounts of ghee.
Herbal oils are made by introducing active principles (cloves, garlic, etc.)
into a suitable oily vehicle. Herbal oils, fine powders or ghee may be admin-
istered intranasally (nasya).
Until a few years ago most traditional Asian remedies used in the UK
were imported from India. Only a few local hakims(traditional healers)
produced their own remedies, using imported raw materials. However, there
are now several companies producing ayurvedic medicines in the UK. Many
of these remedies may be purchased over the counter, by mail order through
Asian and English language newspapers and the internet, or brought back
from visits to the subcontinent. Licensing of the herbal remedies will be
Indian ayurvedic medicine | 205Vata Pitta Kapha
Blue cohosh Chamomile Black cohosh
Cramp bark Cramp bark Blue cohosh
Ginger Peppermint Chamomile
Pennyroyal Skullcap Cramp bark
Valerian Squaw vine Ginger
Ya r rowTable 7.2Example of constitutional treatments for cramping in women